The Indian crested porcupine is known among the other Hystrix species for its ability to produce an especially loud rattle with its quills. This species has a short, high head that features a prominent mane of quills on its head and neck that can be up to 40 centimeters long and which the animal can raise into a tall, threatening crest immediately. Its sides and back are covered with thick, cylindrical spines and its tail is layered with white, shorter quills. Each of the porcupine's feet is broad and has a thick, well-developed claw for digging burrows and finding food.